Babywearing fitness classes - playing it safe

Photo courtesy of www.ShaynaFitness.com

One of the recent "trends" in the babywearing world is the fitness or dance class that parents participate in while babywearing. Keeping your baby close while working out with other parents sounds like a great idea, right? It checks all the boxes: fun fitness activity, socialization, baby is cared for. Your baby was accustomed to your movements throughout pregnancy, so it makes sense to dance with your baby after he's arrived. If this type of class sounds intriguing, then here are some general guidelines that you may want to keep in mind: 
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• As with any fitness program, check with your health care professional before starting.
• Be sure the instructor is educated about best practices with babywearing. Ideally, the instructor should be trained in babywearing or babywearing fitness, or be a parent or caregiver who also actively practices babywearing and also is familiar with how the weight of a child in a carrier will impact the exercises.
• Be sure the instructor is knowledgeable about the special needs of the recovering postpartum body, and that the movements done during class honor those needs.
• Use a carrier that allows for full range of movement. Ring slings are not a good option for these types of classes.
• Use a carrier that supports the baby's body (and head, if the baby is young) well, in an ideal position. A stretchy wrap may not provide the type of consistent support that will stand up to a workout, so these should be used with great care, if at all.
• Avoid the use of soft structured carriers that have bulky inserts. For infants that are small enough to need inserts in these types of carriers, a different carrier (an SSC that fits young infants well without an insert, a woven or hybrid wrap, or a mei tai) would be recommended. 
• Frequently check your baby's position, watching his face to ensure it is not covered and that his airway is open. Take breaks as needed to address position.
• In general, babies should be worn on the front facing in towards you.
• If you and your baby prefer a different position like front facing out or back carry, consult with the trained class instructor and a babywearing educator to ensure this wearing position will be compatible and safe with your fitness activity. 

These are only a brief summary of things to consider. A qualified instructor may provide more guidance for your specific activity and body. Not all of these suggestions may work for every class, every baby, and every wearer, so trust your qualified instructor, and consult with your local babywearing educators if needed.

Hopefully these safety suggestions help you enjoy the experience of moving with your baby! Yes, you are getting a workout but ultimately you are sharing a special time with your baby and connecting with him through movement. Have fun! 

(This post was written with input from Shayna Rose of www.ShaynaFitness.com.)

Photo courtesy of www.ShaynaFitness.com